Sexual dysfunction is a sensitive topic, but one that affects many couples. While women are known to experience sexual difficulties more often than men, male orgasm disorders are not unheard of.

It is estimated that up to 15% of men have difficulty reaching orgasm, and more than 10% of men experience premature ejaculation (PE), according to Harvard Health Publishing. But what are these disorders, and how can they be solved?.

Understanding Male Orgasm Disorders

Male orgasm disorders can be characterized by the inability to achieve ejaculation or the inability to reach orgasm altogether. There are different types of orgasm disorders, including:.

Delayed Ejaculation

This is a condition in which a man has difficulty achieving ejaculation during sexual contactdespite having the desire to do so. This condition is also known as impaired ejaculation, anorgasmia, or ejaculatory incompetence.

Men who experience this type of orgasm disorder may take up to 30 minutes or more to ejaculate, or may not be able to climax at all.

Inhibited Ejaculation

Inhibited ejaculation is a condition where a man is unable to reach orgasm, or does so only under very specific circumstances.

It can take many forms, from simply not feeling the urge to ejaculate to reaching ejaculation only through masturbation but not during sex. Men may feel frustrated and unsatisfied, and their partners may feel unwanted or undesirable.

Premature Ejaculation

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common male sexual disorder, affecting up to 30% of men. It is diagnosed when a man ejaculates within one minute of penetration, before he or his partner is ready for him to do so.

There are many factors that can contribute to premature ejaculation, including psychological issues like anxiety, stress, or depression, as well as physical factors like inflammation of the prostate gland or thyroid conditions.

Anorgasmia

Anorgasmia is a condition in which a man is unable to reach orgasm, even when he has a high level of sexual arousal.

This can be a frustrating and distressing condition, and it may be associated with a number of factors, including anxiety, depression, medication use, or even a history of sexual trauma.

Causes of Male Orgasm Disorders

There are many factors that can contribute to the development of male orgasm disorders. Some of the most common causes include:.

Psychological Causes

Many male orgasm disorders are caused by psychological factors, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or a history of sexual abuse.

Men who are experiencing stress or tension in their lives may find it difficult to reach orgasm or may experience premature ejaculation. In some cases, therapy or counseling may be helpful in addressing these underlying psychological factors and improving sexual function.

Physical Causes

Physical factors can also contribute to male orgasm disorders. Conditions like prostate inflammation or thyroid issues can affect sexual function.

Certain medications, including antidepressants or blood pressure medications, can also interfere with sexual function and contribute to problems with ejaculation or reaching orgasm.

Treatment Options for Male Orgasm Disorders

When it comes to treating male orgasm disorders, a variety of interventions may be helpful. Some of the most common treatment options include:.

Counseling or Therapy

For men who are experiencing psychological issues that are contributing to their orgasm disorder, counseling or therapy may be helpful.

A therapist can help men learn new coping strategies and techniques to better manage their stress levels and anxieties, allowing them to achieve a more satisfying sex life.

Medications

In some cases, medications may be helpful in treating male orgasm disorders.

Antidepressants can be prescribed to help manage premature ejaculation in some men, while topical anesthetic creams or sprays can help to desensitize the penis and delay ejaculation. Men with inhibited ejaculation may benefit from medications designed to increase blood flow to the penis, allowing them to achieve an erection and reach orgasm more easily.

Sexual Techniques

Sexual techniques may also be helpful in treating male orgasm disorders.

Men who experience premature ejaculation, for example, may be taught to practice the “stop-start” technique, which involves stopping sexual activity before ejaculation and then starting again after the urge to ejaculate has subsided. Similarly, men with inhibited ejaculation may benefit from techniques like perineal massage or a vibrating ring.

Lifestyle Changes

In some cases, lifestyle changes can be helpful in improving male sexual function. Changes like quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can all help to improve overall health and increase sexual function.

Men who are experiencing sexual difficulties should talk to their doctor or healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their specific needs.

The Bottom Line

Male orgasm disorders can be frustrating and distressing, but they can be treated.

Whether men are experiencing delayed or inhibited ejaculation, premature ejaculation, or anorgasmia, a variety of interventions are available to help improve sexual function and overall quality of life. From counseling and therapy to medication and sexual techniques, men can work with their healthcare providers to find the best course of treatment that works for them.